Oral Cancer: Understanding the Disease and Its Prevention

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the tissues in and around the mouth. It can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, the roof of the mouth, and throat. Oral cancer is a serious disease, but it can be prevented and treated if caught early.

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

Several factors can increase a person's risk of developing oral cancer, including:

1. Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, and pipes, as well as using smokeless tobacco products, such as chewing tobacco and snuff, are the most significant risk factors for oral cancer.
2. Alcohol Consumption: Heavy drinking is also a risk factor for oral cancer.
3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: Certain strains of HPV can cause oral cancer.
4. Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun can increase the risk of lip cancer.
5. Age: Oral cancer is more common in people over the age of 55.
6. Gender: Men are twice as likely as women to develop oral cancer.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages, but there are some common symptoms to watch for, including:

1. A sore or lump in the mouth that does not heal.
2. Pain or difficulty swallowing.
3. A persistent sore throat.
4. A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth.
5. Numbness or tingling in the mouth or lips.
6. A change in the way your teeth fit together.
7. Unexplained weight loss.

Prevention and Treatment of Oral Cancer

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing oral cancer, including:

1. Quitting smoking or using tobacco products.
2. Limiting alcohol consumption.
3. Practicing safe sex and getting vaccinated against HPV.
4. Wearing a hat and using a lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher when outdoors.
5. Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
6. Visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.

Treatment will depend on the stage and location of cancer. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments.

 Oral cancer is a serious disease, but it can be prevented and treated if caught early. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings at TeethCare Centre with the best dentist in Ahmedabad can also help detect any signs of oral cancer early on. Remember, prevention and early detection are the keys to treating oral cancer successfully.

 

INLAY AND ONLAY

 

When it comes to dental restoration, inlays, and onlays are two options that are used to repair teeth that are damaged due to decay or trauma. Both are considered conservative treatments since they preserve more of the natural tooth structure compared to a crown or bridge.

What are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are indirect restorations, meaning they are made in a dental laboratory and then cemented onto the tooth. They are typically made of porcelain, composite resin, or gold.

Inlays: An inlay is a restoration that is placed within the grooves of a tooth. It is used to repair a small area of decay or damage that is too large for a filling, but not big enough for a crown. Inlays are a great option when the damage is limited to the tooth's biting surface.

Onlays: An onlay, also known as a partial crown, is a restoration that covers one or more of the cusps (the raised areas on the biting surface of the tooth). It is used to repair larger areas of decay or damage that extend beyond the biting surface of the tooth. Onlays are a good alternative to a crown when more tooth structure can be preserved.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays Both inlays and onlays offer several benefits:

Preserve tooth structure: Inlays and onlays are conservative restorations that preserve more of the natural tooth structure compared to a crown or bridge.

Durable: Inlays and onlays are made of strong materials that can withstand normal chewing and biting forces. With proper care, they can last for many years.

Aesthetically pleasing: Inlays and onlays can be matched to the natural colour of your teeth, making them virtually undetectable.

Easy to maintain: Inlays and onlays are easy to clean and maintain, just like your natural teeth.

How are Inlays and Onlays Placed?

Getting an inlay or onlay typically requires two appointments.

First Appointment: During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay or damage. An impression/scan of the tooth is then taken, which is sent to a dental laboratory to fabricate the inlay or onlay. A temporary restoration is placed on the tooth to protect it until the final restoration is ready.

Second Appointment: At the second appointment, the temporary restoration is removed, and the inlay or onlay is placed onto the tooth. Your dentist will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments before cementing it in place. Once the restoration is secured, your bite will be checked to ensure proper alignment.

In conclusion, inlays and onlays are excellent solutions for restoring teeth that have been chipped or decaying. They are durable, aesthetically pleasing, and preserve more of the natural tooth structure. The best dental clinic in Ahmedabad, Teeth Care Centre®, is renowned for incorporating the most recent dental technologies. As a result, we use cutting-edge CAD/CAM technology to design and create a custom inlay or onlay. This means you can leave the dental office with a fully aesthetically restored tooth.

DAMAGE CAUSED BY ACIDIC BEVERAGES TO THE TEETH

 Acidic beverages are a common part of many people's diets. Sodas, sports drinks, fruit juices, energy drinks, and citrus juices are all acidic and can cause damage to teeth over time. While these drinks may be refreshing and enjoyable, they can have serious consequences for your oral health. In this blog, we will discuss the damage caused by acidic beverages to the teeth and how to prevent it.

Acidic Beverages and Tooth Erosion

The enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of the tooth. When acidic beverages are consumed, the acids in them can attack the enamel, causing it to weaken and erode over time. This process is known as tooth erosion, and it can lead to dental problems such as sensitivity, decay, and even tooth loss.

The acidity of a beverage is measured by its pH level, with lower pH levels indicating higher acidity. Most acidic beverages have a pH level between 2 and 5, with some as low as 2.3. Beverages with a pH level of 5.5 or lower can cause tooth erosion, and the more acidic the beverage, the greater the risk of damage.

Demineralization and Tooth Decay

Acidic beverages can also demineralize the tooth enamel, making it more susceptible to bacterial attack and decay. The demineralization process occurs when acids in the beverages dissolve the minerals in the enamel, making it weaker and more porous. Bacteria can then enter the tooth and cause decay, leading to cavities.

Additionally, acidic beverages can promote the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, which can further damage the teeth and gums. These bacteria can cause gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

Preventing Tooth Damage from Acidic Beverages

To reduce the risk of tooth damage from acidic beverages, it's important to limit consumption and rinse the mouth with water after drinking them. It's also recommended to use a straw when consuming acidic beverages to minimize contact with the teeth. This is especially important for children, whose teeth are still developing and are more susceptible to damage.

It's also essential to maintain good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing and flossing. However, it's important to wait for at least 30 minutes after consuming acidic beverages before brushing, as brushing too soon can cause further damage to the weakened enamel.

At Teeth Care Centre, the diagnosis is the key to any progressive disease; the well-skilled and the best dentist in Ahmedabad performs professional care and examination to understand the root cause for the problem and suggestive treatment performed with utmost care and precision.